Rail Star Universe

Kael stepped through the bustling Dunwich market, the black cane in his hand tapping lightly against the cobblestone street. Dunwich was a large city, and his journey to the train station would take quite some time. However, Kael's mind drifted from his original plan. Before leaving the market, he felt the need to find a way to obtain some money.

The crowd writhed around him—vendors shouting their wares, customers bargaining enthusiastically, and the aroma of food mixing with the crisp morning air. Amidst the crowd, Kael stopped in front of a small shop selling bread. The scent of warm bread greeted his nose, catching his attention.

Behind the simple wooden counter stood a young girl, perhaps around twenty years old, wearing a modest cream-colored work dress. Her hair was neatly braided, tucked under a small cap. She seemed busy serving customers but still noticed Kael's presence.

Kael smiled faintly before stepping closer. He decided to speak softly, using a friendly tone that was slightly persuasive. "Good morning, Miss. I apologize for the intrusion. I need two baskets of bread for an important matter, but I'm afraid I don't have enough cash with me right now. Could I pay later, before the day ends?"

The girl paused for a moment, looking at him with cautious eyes. "Sorry, sir. The owner of this shop doesn't allow credit, especially without collateral. This city has been targeted by too many swindlers."

Kael responded with a friendly smile. "That's very reasonable, Miss. Dunwich is indeed known for all those risks, isn't it? But this city is changing, especially with the arrival of new detectives from the government. Security here has improved, hasn't it?"

The girl nodded, softening a little. "True, sir. The city does feel safer since they arrived. But the shop's policy remains unchanged."

Kael nodded as if in agreement. "Of course. Perhaps I could speak directly with the shop owner? I'm sure they would understand my situation."

The girl looked at him hesitantly but finally said, "Alright, sir. Please wait a moment."

Meeting the Shop Owner

A few moments later, a young woman emerged from inside the shop. Her appearance was neat and authoritative, likely around thirty years old. She wore a dark blue dress with a simple corset, and a silk scarf draped around her neck. Her dark brown hair was styled into a practical yet elegant bun. Her gaze was firm but not entirely cold.

"Good morning, sir," she greeted him politely but cautiously. "I'm Cassandra Whitlock, the owner of this shop. How can I help you?"

Kael inclined his head slightly, showing respect. "Good morning, Mrs. Whitlock. My name is Edward Blackwood. I need one basket of bread for an urgent matter, but I find myself without enough money at the moment. I promise to return and pay before sunset."

Cassandra raised an eyebrow. "Mr. Blackwood, the policy of this shop is very clear. We don't allow credit, especially without collateral. I'm sure you understand why this policy is in place."

Kael sighed, feigning disappointment, then offered a small smile. "Of course, Mrs. Whitlock. I can't blame you. This world is full of people trying to take advantage of others' kindness. But I'm not one of them."

He leaned in slightly, keeping Cassandra's gaze locked on his. "Actually, I'm an agent working under a government department. You may have heard that the government recently sent some detectives to enhance the city's security. I'm one of them."

Cassandra's expression changed, though she tried to maintain her cautious demeanor. "Really? If that's true, I'm sure your name would be recognizable."

Kael smiled faintly. "That's true, but our work often isn't publicized openly. You could say I'm part of the 'shadow team.' We work to ensure small things stay under control without drawing too much attention—that's why my name isn't in the papers."

Noticing Cassandra's lingering doubt, he continued in a more convincing tone. "You can ask anyone at City Hall or even the police department; they have my identification on record. They know my name. I just need a little trust, ma'am. If I fail to repay this debt today, you're free to report me to the authorities. I won't run from my responsibilities, and my career would be ruined."

Cassandra narrowed her eyes, clearly still weighing her decision. However, Kael's argument had struck a chord in her business instincts. Giving bread to someone claiming government connections could be a long-term investment.

["This man could be beneficial as a businessman, but why would he go to such lengths for just a basket of bread? Suspicious yet convincing."]

Kael smiled, reinforcing his position. "Besides, Mrs. Whitlock, you surely understand the importance of building good relationships. The world runs not only on money but also on trust. If I fulfill my promise today, you'll know that I'm an ally you can rely on in the future."

["Does he know that I'm not just a small-time business owner? Interesting. He wants to establish a connection with me under the guise of borrowing bread. But he's mistaken about one thing."]

Cassandra finally sighed, relenting to the persuasion. "Alright, Mr. Blackwood. I'll give you one basket of bread. But remember, I won't hesitate to report you if you fail to fulfill your promise before this shop closes."

Kael bowed gracefully, smiling in satisfaction. "I greatly appreciate your trust, Mrs. Whitlock. You won't regret helping me today."

Deal Struck

With one basket of bread in hand, Kael left the stall cautiously, not rushing so as not to attract attention. His cane tapped against the cobblestone street as his mind raced, planning his next move. The day was still long.